A pest is classed as an animal which could be harmful to humans. They may for example damage crops, livestock or forestry, cause a nuisance by invading homes and work spaces or cause illness by spreading disease.<\/p>\n
There are four different types of pests \u2013 rodents, insects, birds and wildlife. Below we discuss a little more about each, what the signs of infestation are and how you can prevent them. <\/p>\n
Rodents<\/strong> <\/p>\n Rats and mice are one of the more unpleasant infestations. Nobody likes the thought of rodents being nearby, especially because their numbers can multiply very quickly, they cause significant damage to properties and they pass on diseases to humans.<\/p>\n Signs of a rodent infestation<\/a>:<\/p>\n \u2022\tDroppings How to prevent a rodent infestation<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022\tKeep windows and doors closed Insects<\/strong><\/p>\n Insects are difficult to control because there are so many of them. Although you\u2019re always going to get them, the last thing you want it a full-blown infestation. <\/p>\n Signs of an insect infestation<\/a>:<\/p>\n \u2022\tIf you have an infestation, you\u2019re likely to spot more insects than usual crawling or flying around. Also check hidden areas such as within cracks and crevices of shelves (especially if they\u2019re made from wood) How to prevent an insect infestation<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022\tClean regularly. Insects tend to gravitate towards mess because it can act as a food source and a good hiding place. Wipe down kitchen surfaces regularly, vacuum at least once a week, ensure that all bins (both inside and outside) and covered and sealed and declutter Birds<\/strong><\/p>\n Although many of us actively encourage birds to come to our gardens, they can be problematic for many reasons. They carry diseases, their droppings damage buildings and can be a trip hazard, their nesting materials block gutters, they\u2019ve been known to bring back lit cigarettes to their nests which is a fire risk and they can attack humans if they feel the need to protect their young. How to spot the signs of a bird infestation<\/a><\/p>\n \u2022\tThey\u2019re settling on roofs or ledges How to prevent a bird infestation<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022\tRemove food sources. This includes bird feeders, pet food, compost bins, rubbish bins which don\u2019t have a tightly fitted lid and food debris from outdoor eating areas. Also check your roof for potential food sources Wildlife<\/strong><\/p>\n When we talk about wildlife<\/a>, we\u2019re generally referring to foxes, moles, rabbits and squirrels.<\/p>\n The signs of infestation will depend on the creature in question. A mole for example will leave mounds and cause great damage to your lawn, whereas a fox wouldn\u2019t do this. <\/p>\n Preventing an infestation will also vary depending on the creature but generally, you should always try to:<\/p>\n \u2022\tRemove food sources Please be aware that under The Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU)<\/a>, there are strict rules when it comes to applying rodenticides outside. This is because they can be highly toxic and need to be used correctly to ensure that wildlife and other non-target animals like pets are kept safe. <\/p>\n If you have a problem with wildlife in a domestic or business premises, please contact a professional pest controller. You can find out how Prokill adheres to CRRU rules here<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022\tAn unusual odour (similar to urine or a damp, musky smell)
\n\u2022\tUnexplained holes in materials
\n\u2022\tNests
\n\u2022\tScratching noises, especially at night
\n\u2022\tGnaw marks on furniture or tracks on the floor or skirting boards
\n\u2022\tFootprints. You can test this by sprinkling flour or talcum powder in the areas you think they\u2019re frequenting. It\u2019s better to do this at night because rodents are more likely to venture out when nobody is around
\n\u2022\tIf your pet is putting its nose inside crevices for longer and more often than usual or they\u2019re suddenly constantly on the hunt for something, it could be because you have rodents<\/p>\n
\n\u2022\tFill potential entry points no matter how small they are. Also check the less obvious entry points such as behind kitchen cabinets, gaps between windows and doors and around vents and pipes.
\n\u2022\tTrim branches that hang over your roof
\n\u2022\tIf you have a cat flap, ensure it\u2019s one where only your pet can gain access through a special collar
\n\u2022\tRemove food sources by storing products in containers rather than packets which are easy to get into, make sure rubbish is secured in bins with a tight-fitting lid, clean up food spills immediately and hoover regularly
\n\u2022\tKeep your garden clean. Make sure toys and furniture are stored away, leaves are raked up and thrown away and overgrown bushes are trimmed. If you keep firewood, store it away from your home<\/p>\n
\n\u2022\tInsect remains including whole carcasses, body parts and cast skins
\n\u2022\tDroppings (many look like poppy seeds)
\n\u2022\tPiles of fine dust or powder
\n\u2022\tIf you have larger insects, you may also hear noises such as scratching or scurrying. These will typically come from the insides of walls or the loft<\/p>\n
\n\u2022\tRemove food sources such as fruit and open cereal boxes on countertops. Clean away pet food bowls and any debris they\u2019ve left as soon as they\u2019ve finished eating
\n\u2022\tRemove water sources (such as sinks filled with water and leaking pipes). As well as providing a way for insects to stay hydrated, it also serves as a breeding ground
\n\u2022\tInstall window screens so you can open windows without bugs flying in<\/p>\n
\n\u2022\tContinuous bird cries
\n\u2022\tNesting materials are strewn about your premises
\n\u2022\tDamaged stock, from pecking and bird fouling
\n\u2022\tYou notice droppings which are concentrated in areas where birds roost<\/p>\n
\n\u2022\tInstall deterrents. Usually used for pigeons, spikes and barriers over window ledges are a great deterrent for any type of bird. Netting and sloped sheathing are also great because once they\u2019re in place, birds physically won\u2019t be able to settle around your property<\/p>\n
\n\u2022\tTrim tree branches which hang over the roof
\n\u2022\tSpray natural repellents in your garden
\n\u2022\tKeep outside areas free of clutter
\n\u2022\tExtend your fence above and\/or below ground
\n\u2022\tFill your garden with plants that these pests don\u2019t like<\/p>\n